章 38: Chapter 38: Cross family IV
"By the way, why did you only return now?" Duchess Emma asked her son after a moment of silence. She knew that her daughter did not want to marry Geoffrey, while her son didn't want to become a mere puppet to the royal family. However, they can't remain on stand-by. The royal family already got rid of the Daniels despite their familial ties. So, who's to say that they were not next in the chopping board?
Christopher was pulled out of his musings and answered, "I was called to attend a meeting with his majesty and have received a mission." Then, he looked at Annalys. "Which by the way, would surely improve the sour mood of my sister here."
Annalys looked at her brother in askance. What could possibly make her feel better after… wait. With the timing then… did her brother mean… "Are you saying that…"
Christopher smiled. "Yes, I will be leaving for Suffox in about an hour." He finally revealed.
Annalys who was just peeved a moment ago suddenly had her face blooming with a smile. She could barely contain her joy. "Brother, you must convince him to come. Please, please, please. If you don't, I would never be able to forgive you!"
Christopher chuckled. "Haven't he already rejected our offer thrice?" he teased. Though did not agree with Annalys' plan and the steps she took for them to come into fruition, she was still his sister. Also, her desire to marry Charlton and her earnest feelings for him would prove to be helpful someday. (Charlton would not be suspicious of him or his family regarding his father's death)
"Brother, it's because we haven't spent enough time together. How can he not like me when I love him this much?" Annalys unashamedly proclaimed.
"Annalys!" Duchess Emma exclaimed.
"Mother, though you agreed to the queen for me to marry Geoffrey, we all know that it's only for insurance. Remember our cause and that me marrying Charlton is still the best plan." Annalys defended.
"But…"
"Emma. Annalys is correct. So, drop it." Duke Argent Cross who just entered the room stated.
"Father…" Christopher and Annalys both stood in greeting.
Argent walked in the room, motioned his hand to acknowledge his children and to indicate that they return to their seats as he sat.
"Argent, I understand why we need Charlton on our side, but the man has already rejected the prospect of marrying our daughter thrice." Emma stated. Annalys was her daughter and for any man to reject her, it never sat well with her.
"Annalys, with that said, do you still want to try?" Argent asked his daughter.
"Yes, father. However, earlier, the crown princess indicated that she wants to be involved in my marriage then now when I got home, I received a letter from Lord Leonard asking if he can escort me to the Charlotte's ball. I'm afraid that the crown princess has a plan and… what if she asks the king to grant a royal decree?" she explained. Thankfully, she was able to earn her father's confidence, so he listens to her.
Argent shook his head. "No need to worry. Given the situation now, the king won't be dumb enough to do that."
The death of grand duke Charles caused a sensation. He also didn't believe it was a natural death and he suspected that the mastermind was someone from their faction.
Admittedly, he thought about it and even suggested the idea before but could not execute it.
Anyhow, since it's done and worked in his favor, he let matters be. Besides, when it backfires and he has no doubt it will, it has nothing to do with him and his family.
On the other hand, regarding his daughter's concern, if the king were to issue a decree between his daughter and Leonard, he could write a petition against it and if the king were to persist, then it would only reflect that he was indeed abusing his authority. So, he was confident that the king won't do it. Though of course, the crown princess playing matchmaker was indeed worrying.
Annalys trusted her father's words so she can finally breathe in relief. "Then father, since you agree with me marrying Charlton, you don't really intend to make me marry Geoffrey if Charlton doesn't agree to marry me this season, right?"
Argent was a man who would never get himself caught in the losing side of any war. He knew that their faction would be taking the final steps soon and by the end of the year, the outcome would be ultimate. Whether they win or lose, is still up to chance, but in whichever case, he would still be in the winning side.
"That is for fate to decide." Argent answered.
Annalys pouted. She understood what her father was implying but still.
Christopher knew what his father was thinking and though he understood that a back-up plan was never a bad idea, he has a plan of his own.
"Annalys, don't make that face. As said, I'm heading to Suffox in about an hour and given the letter you received, I think fate is smiling in your favor." Christopher coaxed.
"How is that so brother? Please pray tell." Annalys said. She knew her brother was very smart. Maybe he has a plan.
Argent looked at his son he was most proud of. In truth, if not for Christopher, he would have switched his gear towards the monarchist faction. Though it still left a bitter taste in his mouth, Geoffrey was just too strong to topple. Also, admit it or not, he has the potential to be a great ruler.
However, his son was so bright and has the dedication to pursue greater things. Thus, if there was a chance, how could he let him be a side kick to the crown prince?
Christopher knew from Marquess Klaus that Charlton already has the intention to return to the capital. Meanwhile, the king sent him as envoy together with Hugo to test his family's intentions. Now, given Leonard's letter to his sister and the probable aims of the crown princess, his mind was able to come up with an idea.
Christopher just gave his sister a smirk. "Just write back and tell Leonard that I will be escorting you for that occasion. As to your question, you will know when I get back. Now, I should go get ready for my trip."
"Brother!!!!!" Annalys complained.
Christopher laughed.
Argent shook his head with his children's antics. "Christopher, when will you be back?"
"The day after tomorrow. I am only excused from my duties on Monday, father." Christopher replied.
"I see. Take care on your trip."
"Yes. Then, father, mother. I will go ahead." Christopher said before standing up from his seat to leave the room.
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TBC
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